Common Sense Media: Best Sitcoms for Teens and Tweens

'The Wonder Years'

Age: 12+ Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.

Synopsis: Nostalgic coming-of-age sitcom still charms.

Rating: * * * *

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that this hit '80s sitcom series tells the story of main character Kevin Arnold's childhood, beginning with his tween years in the late 1960s. The events are told from both his adult and childhood perspectives, thanks to the show's trademark narration. The series focuses on Kevin's relationships with family, friends, dates, and so on -- many of which are impacted by the tumultuous political, social, and economic factors of the era. While early episodes are mostly pretty tame, later seasons do include some drug references (marijuana) and stronger sexual innuendo/scenarios. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: ABC)The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that there’s little cause for concern in this lighthearted sitcom about a family coping with the challenges that accompany a new (and unexpected) baby. The show draws humor from standard family fare like older siblings’ lukewarm responses to a new baby, and parents’ difficulties managing the needs of a large family. Apart from some very mild flirting (two of the characters are teens, after all), there’s nothing iffy in this funny spin on modern family life. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: Disney)The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that kids will be drawn to this series by star Debby Ryan, who's familiar to most Disney fans from her roles in "The Suite Life on Deck" and "16 Wishes." Happily the show offers overwhelmingly positive social messages about family life, communication, and diversity, with plenty of kid-friendly humor mixed in. The parents' struggles to balance work with family can prompt discussions with kids about how your family manages similar challenges, and the show's diverse cast reflects the look of modern families. Expect some minor flirting and lots of feel-good moments that explore relationships, plus plenty of gag-style giggles for the kids. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty)The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that "Lab Rats" is a fun-filled show that has cross-generational appeal thanks to a talented cast, clever writing, and a unique storyline that's as much about the adults as it is the kids. The series is a comedy at heart, but it also mixes in some worthwhile themes about relationships, responsibility, and coping with change. All of the characters evolve to adapt to their new family structure, and the journey isn't without its bumps, but they work through their problems together. Strong adult role models, unpredictable bionic mishaps, and positive messages about embracing individuality round out this fun choice for families. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: Michael Buckner/Getty)The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

Synopsis: Fantasy series dials back violence, ups the laughs for kids.

Rating: * * *

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that "Level Up" is more age-appropriate for a younger audience than the original movie, thanks to the fact that there's less violence and more goofy humor surrounding the interactions between the characters and the video game cross-overs. Expect a fair amount of silliness as the teens pull out all the stops to keep the portal and its users a secret from the general public. The show doesn't set out to teach any lessons, but you can draw your kids' attention to the teens' efforts to relate to and work with each other despite their differences. The show paints a pretty unrealistic picture of teen life in general, but that's to be expected in a show so rooted in fantasy. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: Cartoon Network)The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that there's little to worry about in this Disney sitcom about a trio of siblings with magical powers. Each episode offers positive messages about responsibility, honesty, and making good decisions, and characters learn from their mistakes. Teen girls are sometimes portrayed as image-driven and shopping-obsessed, and some mildly rebellious behavior (a girl uses magic to help sneak out of the house for a clothing sale, for example) is common. Older tweens might find the squeaky-clean package a bit on the cheesy side, but it's fine for younger ones. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: Disney Channel)The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that this classic '80s sitcom centers on a strong family headed by loving parents who happily share domestic duties. Much of the show's humor stems from the personality differences among the family members, but despite many disagreements, the parents support their kids and encourage them to express their views. Some episodes touch on serious issues like teen pregnancy, grief, extramarital affairs, and crime, but they're all addressed in an honest, thoughtful manner. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: Paramount)The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that this comedy series aimed at tweens -- starring Victoria Justice from "Zoey 101" -- actively promotes its partner website called TheSlap.com – a social network that allows viewers to follow blogs from the characters, play games, and post comments. Not only is the site referenced numerous times throughout each episode (characters’ postings provide segues between scenes, for example), there are also direct appeals to viewers to visit the site. Parents should be prepared for tweens asking to go online after or during the show. That said, the remaining content is mostly tween-friendly – save for some lengthy kisses between one teen couple – and Tori is a decent role model, contrasting some of her classmates’ eccentricities with her self-confidence and adherence to her personal values. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: Nickelodeon Networks)The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that this warmhearted sitcom is funny and smart, but its themes are too mature for younger kids. Chris' parents make empty threats when their kids get into trouble; these comments are portrayed in a comedic light and aren't meant to be taken seriously (in fact, the parents are strong role models overall, teaching their kids responsibility and helping family members learn from mistakes). There are jokes about drugs (becoming a "crackhead"), and the "N" word is used sparingly (usually to make a specific point). There's also some mild kissing and jokes about teen pregnancy. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: Paramount) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that this sitcom draws its humor from typical middle-class family woes like tight finances, overscheduling, communication issues, and balancing work and family time. The parents are devoted to their kids and to each other but do sometimes show their stress over worries about money and other issues. Though the show’s content is fairly tame compared to much prime-time fare, young kids won’t grasp the humor, and some of the language (multiple uses of "hell" and "damn," plus name-calling like "freak" and "moron") isn’t appropriate for the littlest viewers. But older tweens, teens, and parents are likely to get a kick out of this witty, honest comedy about life’s trials. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: ABC) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

'The Simpsons'Age: 12+ Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids.

Synopsis: Clever, fast-paced cartoon with edgy humor.

Rating: * * * *

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that the jokes in this long-running favorite often zip past so quickly that kids won't get the deeper statements that lie therein. Life in Springfield can be chaotic, and Homer could very well be the "do not try this at home" poster boy. Beer is consumed in every episode, bad habits are obliged, and ignorance and mockery are the norm, but somehow, everyone gets along in the end. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: FOX)The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that this hit '80s sitcom series tells the story of main character Kevin Arnold's childhood, beginning with his tween years in the late 1960s. The events are told from both his adult and childhood perspectives, thanks to the show's trademark narration. The series focuses on Kevin's relationships with family, friends, dates, and so on -- many of which are impacted by the tumultuous political, social, and economic factors of the era. While early episodes are mostly pretty tame, later seasons do include some drug references (marijuana) and stronger sexual innuendo/scenarios. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: ABC)The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

'Modern Family'Age: 13+ Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids.

Synopsis: Fresh take on sitcom families includes some iffy content.

Rating: * * * *

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that this sitcom revolves around three different families -- including a homosexual couple and their adopted daughter and a post-mid-lifer and his much younger second wife and stepson. Expect some suggestive jokes, particularly in relation to/at the expense of the homosexual characters, and additional sexual innuendo. Although the characters generally seem to mean well when you get down to it, there's some stereotyping and plenty of dysfunction. Patriarch Jay wrestles with his son Mitchell's sexuality and often jokes about Mitchell's partner and their lifestyle. Language includes words like "damn" and "bitch," adult characters drink socially, and there's frank discussion of topics like teen pregnancy. The show's main goal is to elicit laughs, but there are some touching moments that celebrate family ties, too. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: ABC)The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

'Community'Age: 14+ Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids.

Synopsis: Witty college comedy toys with stereotypes for laughs.

Rating: * * * *

What Parents Should Know: Parents need to know that this sitcom about a motley crew of community college students has plenty of sexual innuendo and stereotypes about community colleges and those who attend them, but it also offers subtle positive messages about pursuing an education at any age and the importance of friendship. The main character often makes iffy choices, but he's also able to bring people together. Expect some salty language ("crap," "ass," etc.) and occasional cigarette smoking and drinking. - Common Sense Media

(Photo: NBC)The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.